I picked this crate up at an antique shop on Chicago's north side. I am interested to know how old this crate is. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
It seams to be in really good shape, 2 sides seemed to have been exposed to more air/light? as they have a darker patina.

I did some research and learned that the Sanford Mfg Co was founded in 1857 in Massachusetts.
In 1866 the company moved its headquarters to Chicago. In 1940 the company changed its name to Sanford Ink Company.

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Comments

stefdesign, 5 years agoI'm not an expert on any inks, but I have been an ink user all my life! Isn't this interesting, to find an old crate of a company that's still going strong today! Sanford is the company that makes Sharpie pens!

My guess, from just some quick research, is that this crate is probably from the teens or twenties, because that's when those bottles with the spouts were made. I've found several photos of the ink bottles, or "premium writing fluid" online. This is a great find!

stefdesign, 5 years agoThanks for sharing that ad. It's wonderful to see all of Sandford's products all on one shot. I didn't notice if there was a date on the ad, did you find one?

kmcneela, 5 years agoI did not find a date on that particular ad. I did notice some other adds from 1919 and within a few years depicting the ink bottles with the premium pour out spot. I think your estimate of the crate dating back to the teens or twenties was spot on.
Thanks again!